History

Sweet Olive was built in the mid-1800s for a wealthy New Orleanean family. By World War II it had become a boarding house, and was later a school. Finally, it was purchased by scenic designer Stuart Auld, who first turned it into a Bed and Breakfast.

When Stuart wasn't busy creating grand illusions for movies such as Runaway Jury, Unchain My Heart, Legends of the Fall, and on TV, The Big Easy and Curb Your Enthusiasm, he was transforming the Sweet Olive into a live-in work of art. With his mastery of faux bois (literally, "false wood"), he painted each room with a subtle but distinct tree motif.

Throughout the house, Stuart's talent for blurring the line between reality and imagination ensures that around each corner there will be another visual treat.